A look at Holiday Camp, where summer fun is for everyone

As the music starts to play for the opening number in the morning at Holiday Camp in Monroe, the campers start to dance under the gazebo.

It is a priceless site to see.

I could not help myself but to dance along with the campers. I have been covering the camp for the last several years and must say it is one of the highlights of my summer.

Holiday Camp has for years provided summer programming for Monroe County youth with disabilities. The camp is for all ages. Each summer the campers are involved in unique enrichment activities; swimming, sports, arts and crafts, field trips, music, outdoor recreation, and entertainment.

The camp property is owned and maintained by the Monroe County Intermediate School District. The summer camp is operated by a Board of Directors which is comprised of local citizens -- business leaders, parents, and community representatives.

Holiday Camp operates on a nominal fee structure, and depends on donated funds and services to provide meals, special equipment, support services, camper ships, supplies, and improvements.

This year's Holiday Camp will come to a close this week as the older adults end the season.

“The 2022 Holiday Camp season was another huge success; highlighted by many smiles, laughs, and hugs,” said Holiday Camp Director Josh Vance. “Friends from around the county were able to spend time together swimming, doing arts and crafts, music therapy, dancing, and a whole lot of good food."

The camp grounds are set inside tall trees along with different buildings for the campers to engage, a swimming pool for recreation and the music/band shell for entertainment and programs.

“This summer at Holiday Camp has been so much fun” said camp councilor Priscilla Byrd. “It's one of the highlights of the kids summer and I feel blessed to be able to be a part of it."

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Holiday Camp attendees enjoy summer fun